Risotto alle Fragole {Strawberry Risotto}
When most people hear “Strawberry Risotto” they’re not quite sure how to react. It’s usually followed by REALLY? One bite is usually all it takes to change their mind. Strawberry Risotto is a common dish in Northern Italy. It’s a sweet and savory combination that’s refreshing and rich. It’s perfect for spring/summer when strawberries are multiplying faster than rabbits.
Calzone ai Funghi {Mushroom Calzones}
Buona Pasquetta! Pasquetta is the Monday after Easter, and it’s typically celebrated while picnic-ing with family and friends. I am a sucker for a picnic especially at a scenic location in the spring while the breeze is blowing, the birds are chirping, we’re noshing on simple satisfying food all while being surrounded with those that I adore. A perfect picnic indeed.
Torta Pasqualina {Easter Pie}
I miss being in Italy in general but especially for Easter {Pasqua}. It’s truly a week long {known as holy week} celebration filled with traditions that dates back hundreds of years. Today is good Friday {Venerdi’ Santo}and traditionally there is no meat served. A vegetable Torta Pasqualina {Easter Pie} would be served. It’s a delicious savory pie that’s filled with ricotta and spinach {or swiss chard}
Simple Tips for Easter Sunday
Last week I shared with you that I had been challenged by Pepperidge Farm to share a few tips with you on how I elevate special occasion meals. Easter is definitely a special occasion meal and today, I’m sharing three of my favorites stress free, simple but elegant tips with you.
Gnudi {Spinach and Ricotta Gnudi}
If you like gnocchi then chances are you’ll love GNUDI! Gnudi are naked ravioli. Why naked? Because it’s the ravioli filling without the wrapper. I will tell you these are quite addictive. They’re creamy pillows of ricotta and spinach rolled into blissful bites.
Easter {Pasqua} Preparations
Pasqua, {Easter Sunday} is just over a week away and our preparations have already started. We have activities all weekend that start on Saturday with brunch and an Easter Egg Hunt {which even the older kids enjoy even if they don’t admit it} and maybe even a visit from the Easter Bunny ; ) Our entire family gets together after church on Easter Sunday for a beautiful meal to celebrate. Although, our dinner menu hasn’t been finalized, it will include a traditional Lamb dish as our centerpiece, most likely a Roasted Leg of Lamb {pictured above}
Pollo al Brandy {Chicken with Brandy}
I’ve said it a gazillion times, chicken is so incredibly versatile. So much so, I don’t know how anyone could ever tire of it ; ) At least that’s what I keep telling my family LOL. We’re big fans of chicken thighs and legs in our house. Not that I don’t like the chicken breasts, the darker meats just seem to be more flavorful to me and the fact that they’re also less expensive doesn’t hurt ; )
Spaghetti con Olive e Limone {Spaghetti with Olives and Lemon}
Spring has SPRUNG! As it’s getting warmer and we’re spending more and more time relaxing and soaking up the sun {ehem okay that’s what I wish I was doing. Instead I’m busy running around like crazy is more like it} I find dinner time is sneaking up on me and I’m not as prepared as I’d like to be. SO what’s a girl to do…throw together a quick and simple pasta dish of course ; )
Arancini {Fried Rice Balls}
Fried food is some of the best food in the world. Period. Now before anyone gets all excited, I never said it was the healthiest of foods, just that it is some of the best food ; ) Everything in moderation right ; ) So are you ready for a fried phenomenon? I must warn you though, these Arancini {fried rice balls} are utterly addictive. If you’re on a diet or cutting back on carbs {GASP} go ahead and save yourself, click away now ; )
Insalata Caprese {Caprese Salad Skewers}
One of my favorite things I look forward to eating in the spring and summer is Caprese Salad. There’s something magical about a fresh from the vine, juicy red tomato, paired with creamy fresh mozzarella, basil and golden extra virgin olive oil. It’s positively swoon-worthy.
Timballo di Bucatini {Bucatini Timbale}
I know it’s spring and typically one doesn’t eat baked pasta in spring, but our weather as been bi-polar lately. It’s been 80 degrees one day and then 40 degrees or 60 degrees the next. So not only have we had to turn the heater back on, I’ve fired up the oven for a few comfort dishes. Baked Pasta is one of those!
Piccata di Pollo {Chicken Piccata}
I can not believe that I haven’t shared my recipe for Chicken Piccata before now. It’s one of those dishes that is so simple in it’s preparation but full on flavor. It’s perfect for a weeknight as it comes together in less than 30 minutes or it’s even fancy enough for company {we don’t have to tell them how simple it was ; 0 }
Pasta Mista {Mixed Pasta}
As you may have noticed from my posts lately, I’m kind of loving the beautiful, vibrant and oh so colorful pastas at the moment.I just can’t help myself. They pull me in with their pretty faces, but I stay because they’re also full of substance {and by that I mean they’re tasty to boot} I’m guessing from the comments that you all are smitten too, and I’m pretty sure sales at World Market are up too ; )
Welcome to my cucina! To see what we're cooking up in the Family Kitchen click HERE |
    
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